The Federal and New South Wales Governments have committed to provide the City of Parramatta with $722,000 to boost flood resilience along the Parramatta River.
A $415,000 investment from the New South Wales Government’s Floodplain Management Program will help Council progress to the next stage in the flood risk management process, the Parramatta River Flood Study and Plan, on track for community consultation in late 2025.
An additional $250,000 in funding from the Federal Government’s Disaster Ready Fund (DRF), which will be matched by Council, will go towards investigating flood mitigation infrastructure options to significantly reduce flood damages and risks in the Parramatta area.
City of Parramatta Lord Mayor, Martin Zaiter, said that the funding will pave the way for the essential resources needed for Council to plan and potentially reduce flood impacts effectively across the city.
“Parramatta River is a huge part of our identity and is environmentally, historically and culturally significant to our community,” Mayor Zaiter said.
“This important work is about understanding and identifying flooding risk in the Parramatta area to keep our community safe.
“We are serious about flood mitigation and strengthening our resilience, especially with our CBD being prone to flash flooding.”
Federal Member for Parramatta, Dr Andrew Charlton, said that the funding will ensure the community is better prepared for future floods.
“We’ve all seen the power of this river when it breaks its banks. This funding ensures we’re ready for the next big deluge, building a stronger, safer future for our beautiful city, its people, and businesses,” Dr Charlton said.
“I’m proud our government has provided this critical funding, delivering the tools and strategies Parramatta needs to stay protected and thrive. We will continue to work closely with Council to prevent, predict, and prepare for natural disasters that may impact the people of Parramatta.”
Council also secured more than $57,000 for a FloodSmart enhancement project to audit the performance of the FloodSmart system.
State Member for Parramatta, Donna Davis, said that the grant goes towards developing a flood risk management study and plan and all Councils are responsible for managing flood risks within their areas.
“The FloodSmart enhancement and Parramatta River flood risk study and plan will be welcomed by the local community,” Ms Davis said.
“I am grateful the State Government has partnered with Council to fund this important work.”
Visit Council’s website for more information about the Parramatta River Flood Study, flood management program and the FloodSmart service.
